This Was a Man (The Clifton Chronicles 7)

“7784,” she repeated.

“It’s Desmond. Have you been able to—” He clearly didn’t want to waste a second. She checked her first bullet point.

“Yes. Knowles has agreed to loan you ten thousand against the flat in Bristol.”

“Thank God,” said Mellor, breathing a deep sigh of relief that she could hear clearly.

“But if you fail to pay him back the full amount within thirty days, he’s demanding extra collateral.”

“Like what?”

“Your shares in Mellor Travel.”

“But they’re worth about a million and a half.”

“Take it or leave it, if I remember his exact words.”

Mellor paused for a moment, aware that his three minutes were fast running out.

“I don’t have a lot of choice. Tell the bastard I accept his terms, and I’ll pay him back the moment the flat is sold.”

“I’ll pass on the message immediately, but he won’t release the money until he’s seen your signature on the document that will transfer ownership of the shares to him should you fail to pay him back within thirty days.”

“But how can I possibly sign it in time?” said Mellor, sounding desperate again.

“Don’t worry. His lawyers have done all the paperwork, and it will be delivered to the prison later this evening. Just be sure you have someone looking out for it.”

“Address the envelope to Mr. Graves. He’s my floor officer, and he’s already done me a couple of favors, so you can trust him. As long as he’s on duty tonight, I should be able to turn it around immediately.”

Virginia made a note of the name, before checking her list again. “Where and when do I deliver the money?”

“Thursday, twelve o’clock, Trafalgar Square. Your contact will be standing between the fountains. Just be sure you’re not late.”

“Will it be the same woman?”

“No. Look for a bald middle-aged man wearing a navy blazer and jeans.” Virginia made another note. “You’re a diamond,” said Mellor. “I owe you.”

“Anything else I can do?”

“No, but I’ll be sending you a letter that I need you to—”

The line went dead.

* * *

Mr. Graves put down the phone in his office and waited for his instructions.

“You’ll need to make sure you’re on duty when the document arrives at the prison gate later this evening.”

“No problem. Not many officers volunteer for the night shift.”

“And make sure Mellor signs the agreement, and that you witness his signature.”

“What do I do then?”

“Take it out with you when you come off duty and deliver it to the address Mellor writes on the

envelope. And don’t forget, you’ve still got one more job to do before you can get paid.”